Guinea-Bissau

Capital: Bissau

Population: 1,628,603

Brief History of Guinea-Bissau:

Portugal claimed the area that is today Guinea-Bissau in the 15th century. It was one of the first areas explored by the Portuguese. However, even though Portugal claimed the area in 1446, they did not start trading and settling the area until the 1600s. At that time, the area became a major supplier of slaves. The Cape Verde islands were used as a major slave trading center.

In the 19th century, the area was divided up between the French, British, and the Portuguese. Guinea-Bissau was the Portuguese portion.

In 1974 Guinea-Bissau gained full independence from Portugal. Since that time the country has been marred with unrest, civil wars, and military coups.

The Geography of Guinea-Bissau

Total Size: 36,120 square km

Size Comparison: slightly less than three times the size of Connecticut